Resolve of the General Court of the Massachusetts-Bay, August 31, 1776

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Resolved, That a Committee of suitable persons be appointed immediately to repair to the State of New Hampshire, and apply to the Government there, and, if practicable, with the loan of as many Cannon as can be spared from this State, to effect the fixing out the Continental Ship now under the direction of Mr˙ Langdon; and to take immediate measures that such number of Cannon and other necessaries, as without distressing the State may be lent to the Continent, may be safely and expeditiously transported to Portsmouth. This Ship to be fixed out for the purpose of attacking the Milford, or other ships of war distressing our coast.

And in case said Ship can within any reasonable time be equipped for the sea,

Resolved, That two or more Colony armed Vessels be directed to act in concert with her; and that the Committee be, and hereby are, empowered to engage as many sea coast Soldiers east of Boston as may incline to enter for said service, and in general to do everything necessary for effecting the aforesaid purpose; and that the pay of the sea coast men continue, in addition to emoluments of the sea service. The said Cannon and other articles, that may be lent as aforesaid, to be returned as soon as the cruise shall be over, or as soon as they shall be called for by this Government.